Chris bids for starting role

2 November 2012

Chris Porter is eager to make the most of Dave Kitson's enforced lay-off and establish himself as a regular starter for the Blades.

The former Derby striker marked his first league outing of the season against Portsmouth on Monday by winning the penalty that led to Nick Blackman's match-winning goal and Porter is now looking forward to an extended run:

"I am delighted to be back in the thick of the action after a frustrating start to the season. Having signed a new deal in the summer I was keen to hit the ground running, but I knew in pre-season my knee wasn't quite right and needed treatment.

"Thankfully the injection I had cleared up the problem and now, having worked hard to get myself fit, I feel brand new.

"With Dave (Kitson) injured I know I have got to make the most of this opportunity because with the number of strikers we have at the club, if you aren't performing you won't stay in the team for long. Nick (Blackman) and Dave have formed a good partnership in recent weeks but hopefully I can play a similar role to Dave. Shaun (Miller) is also getting ever closer to a start and everyone knows what Richard (Cresswell) brings to the table."

On the FA Cup and the clash at the Memorial Stadium, Porter concluded:

"I know the manager (Mark McGhee) and David Clarkson from my time at Motherwell, so after the game it will be nice to catch up with them.

"Bristol Rovers haven't started the season as they would have expected but anything can happen in the FA Cup and we must be mindful of the dangers they could pose.

"You can never take anything for granted in this competition and hopefully we can progress on Saturday and get one step closer to a plum draw in the third round."